Easy then. Million Dollar Highway from Blackhawk to Estes Park. Gambling town on one end and Tourist trap on the other.
Yup, this is what I was going to suggest. Such an awesome drive. Here's the map. I make it a point to drive this road at least once a year with my g/f. Bring a camrea.
You also might want to go to the top of Mt. Evans... Highest road in the US and an awesome view if you climb the 150 or so yards to the top.